ESP-1 Grades 6-8

Ashland Public Schools is seeking dynamic, special education support professional with experience to support our students within our specialized programming and in the general education setting for grades 6-8 at Ashland Middle School. The ideal candidate(s) will work with our students to increase their ability to access the curriculum both in the general education and special education settings while maintaining a safe and supportive learning environment. This position requires implementing individualized educational plans, monitoring student behavior, data collection and reporting, providing information to appropriate school personnel, and communicating effectively with educators, service providers and building administration when needed.

Requirements:

• Candidates for consideration must have:
• Associate''s degree or higher preferred
• Experience working with children

Responsibilities:

• Assist with classroom organization, routine, and general classroom routines while providing a safe learning environment for students;
• Assist classroom teachers with and facilitate data collection, program implementation, and overall generalization of skills;
• Actively take/maintain student data;
• Assist in the development, implementation, and evaluation of student programs;
• Take direction from supervising teacher(s) and/or Individual Education Program (IEP) contact person;
• Respect children''s confidentiality in all interactions with staff, parents and school community;
• Model and promote appropriate communication, socialization and conversation skills;
• Communicate with service providers to ensure carry-over of goals throughout the day;
• Monitor students in unstructured settings such as hallways, cafeteria, recess, etc;
• Participate in staff training/professional development specific to the children''s disabilities as directed;
• Communicate effectively and work in a collaborative team environment with students'' needs at the forefront;
• Assist the teacher with follow-up educational activities such as homework,independent seat work, small group work;
• Report any concerns to the teacher(s); and
• Other duties and supports assigned by the principal, teacher(s), special education coordinator, or director of special education.
• All Performance responsibilities must be pertinent to the ESP''s role and under the direction of the assigned general education or special education teacher.

Terms of Employment:

Hourly wage under current contract between Educational Support Personnel and the Ashland School Committee. Hours determined by the Principal/Director of Student Services Hours may vary during the school year depending on the student''s need. Work year will coincide with the instructional calendar of 180 school days plus three professional development days. Positions are subject to annual review, hours and assignments may vary based on student needs and budget limitations.